Mr. Kenneth Ray Friars of 12 Riverview Ave Sussex, passed away at the Sussex Health Centre on February 03, 2010 at the age of 83. Born in Sussex on April 08, 1926, he was the son of the late Robert R. Friars and L. Pearl Slocum. Kenneth Ray is survived by his wife Mary Lee Friars, Ken is survived by his beloved wife of over 50 years, Mary Lee; his sons: Bruce and his wife Anne of Plumweseep and Tom and Tammy Gilchrist of Sussex; his daughter, Pamela Friars of Saint John; his sister, Joan Kane of Saint John; his brother, Harvey Friars and his wife Gillian of Toronto; his sister-in-law, Phyllis Friars of Sussex Corner; 4 grandchildren; Carly Anne Friars and Marc Daigle, Tyler Friars, Nicholas Friars and a step grandson, Christian Gilchrist - Norrad; as well as several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his children: Holly Alexandra and Robert Ray and by his brother, Paul. Ken was probably the busiest man in Sussex. Early in his life he joined the Canadian Navy and then went on to earn his BBA Business at UNB. He spent time working at Friars Restaurant which was owned by his parents inspiring him to own and operate his own business. In fact, throughout his life, he owned and operated several businesses contributing to his success. These businesses include the Fundy Park Chalets - Restaurant and Grocery, Dixie Lee Restaurant and the Four Corners Esso. With his brother Paul, he co-owned and operated an Artic Cat Dealership here in Sussex as well as one in Grand Bay. Ken also worked in the CN office and worked for Social Services in Saint John for 13 years. Ken was known for his commitment and involvement in his community. He was a counsellor and former Mayor for 27 years, dedicating himself to the growth and development of Sussex. He made a difference in many people's lived and always left a lasting impression with those he met. Ken was interested in everything around him. He loved watching sports including Hockey with the Boston Bruins being his favorite team. He also loved to golf and fish. Ken was also a member of many committees including: Kings County Solid Waste Commission, Fundy Trail Development Authority, Trout Creel Mode Watershed Committee, Kennebecasis Restoration Committee, Local Goverment Review Committee, Council, Work Committee, Human Services, Protective Services, Admistration Committee and Economic and Long Range Planning Committee.